Australia’s most influential body for promoting sustainable construction is set to get a new leader.

In its latest announcement, the Green Building Council of Australia says it has appointed engineer and sustainability expert Davina Rooney as its new chief executive officer.

Ms Rooney replaces Romilly Madew, who is set to take up the reins as chief executive officer of Infrastructure Australia next month.

A civil engineer by profession, Rooney formally served as the General Manager of Sustainability and Corporate Procurement at property developer Stockland.

During this time, she oversaw a number of initiatives.

These included the largest rollout of solar panels of any property developer in the country and the greatest number of shopping centres in the country to achieve Green Star Design and As Built ratings.

Rooney expressed excitement about her new role.

She says the property sector has an important role in delivering healthy and environmentally friendly buildings, infrastructure and cities.

“The GBCA, and outgoing CEO Romilly Madew AO, have had a transformational impact on the Australian market and this is something I look forward to building on in the years ahead,” Rooney said.

GBCA Chair Rod Fehring welcomed Rooney’s appointment.

“Davina is a well-known and highly respected leader in our sector and we are delighted to be appointing her as the GBCA’s next Chief Executive Officer.”